Acaci project authorized
On Friday July 12, 2024, Andra obtained the prefectoral order to increase the authorized disposal capacity of the Cires facility.
This authorization follows a review by government departments, including the opinion of the Environmental Authority, and a public inquiry concluded by a favorable opinion from the investigating commissioner.
The Cires will be able to accommodate a total of 950,000 m3 of very low-level radioactive waste (VLLW), instead of the 650,000 m3 initially authorized, without increasing the disposal surface area. This has been made possible by the various improvements made to the disposal cells since the center was commissioned in 2003, enabling the 650,000 m3 to be disposed of in two sections instead of the three originally planned: deepening of the cells, stiffening of the slopes and raising of the upper part of the disposal area.
Image above shows the development and optimization of cells between 2003 and 2016.
Obtaining this authorization and implementing the Acaci project meet a requirement of the French national radioactive materials and waste management plan (PNGMDR). They will provide a long-term management solution for VLLW for a further fifteen years or so.
Next steps...
- As of September 2024, clearing of the future western landfill area and archaeological diagnosis.
- If the diagnosis is negative, stump removal from April 2025, followed by the start of preparatory work for the new landfill platform, and the removal of soil stockpiles to free up the right-of-way for tranche 3.
- Development of tranche 3 for availability by 2028.
